We arrived at Nosterfield Nature Reserve the day after Covid restrictions were lifted and the prospect of excellent weather made it an ideal start to our birding year. In spite of the high water level, wader habitat was good with suitable margins attracting a variety of species. A Knot in winter plumage was a good start, with Ruffs, Black-tailed Godwits, Avocets and Ringed Plovers providing added interest. Ten species of ducks were present, a female Scaup being the centre of attraction, with a pair of Pintails a close second. The chance of seeing some early warblers prompted a walk down to the North Hide where, as expected, Chiffchaff was the first to be heard and a Sky Lark was singing high above us. A shout of ‘Blackcap’ from the forward group had us searching and soon good views were obtained of two males feeding on ivy berries, a much sought after food source for them at this time of year. Further along the track Goldfinch, Chaffinch and Greenfinch were noted and, as nothing else was added to our list, we returned to the cars and drove to Lingham where we had lunch. The lake there, which has attracted so many rarities over the years, has sadly been lost due to a change in quarrying practices. The path over the fields to Flask Lake was the next option, the target species along the way being Little Owl, which is not always seen, but this time we were lucky, eventually gaining close views! Flask was rather quiet so some members had a walk down to the reed bed where a Bittern had previously been showing well — but, unfortunately, not that day. Others tried to view what was present on Kiln Lake but were prevented by the numerous trees growing in front of it.
On returning to Lingham, two of our roaming members reported that due to the easing of lockdown and the good weather, the car park at Nicholson’s Lagoon was full so we aborted our proposed visit there and moved on to YWT Ripon Wetlands. We were warned that a gas gun was operating there, going off at regular intervals in a crop of oil seed rape. On investigating the wooded areas near one of the small lakes, a Water Rail called obligingly instead of the hoped for Cetti’s Warbler. A pair of Goosanders, Marsh Tit, Linnet, Siskin, two Green Woodpeckers and a Red Kite were added to the list, Nosterfield having produced most of the species. A total of 69 species was seen, which is an excellent number for the group considering that the areas covered were of a similar habitat, bringing an end to a splendid day’s birdwatching.
June E. Atkinson